With just days remaining until the 2025 season begins, the St. Louis Cardinals have settled their most anticipated roster decision. According to St. Louis Post-Dispatch lead baseball writer Derrick Goold, Victor Scott II has officially been named the team’s starting center fielder for Opening Day.
“He’s earned it,” manager Oli Marmol told Goold, acknowledging Scott’s stellar spring performance. Across 15 games, the 24-year-old has posted an impressive .366/.469/.756 slash line, leading the team in runs, slugging percentage, and OPS. He also shares the team lead in home runs with Luken Baker and hits with Willson Contreras.
Scott’s selection means Michael Siani, who has struggled offensively this spring with a .100/.234/.100 slash line, will begin the season on the bench.
In addition to Scott, Luken Baker has secured a spot on the big-league roster for the first time in his career. The 28-year-old, a former 75th overall draft pick, spent six years in the minors before earning his place as a right-handed bat off the bench. His four home runs and consistent production at the plate convinced the team he was ready for the majors.
Meanwhile, the Cardinals have reassigned infielders José Fermín and José Barrero to minor league camp. Fermín put up a strong fight for a roster spot, hitting .292 with seven extra-base hits and nine RBIs in 48 at-bats. However, Baker’s power ultimately gave him the edge. Barrero had a less impactful spring, batting .238 with two home runs and 12 strikeouts over 23 games.
With these final roster moves and adjustments to the pitching staff, the Cardinals have officially set their 26-man Opening Day roster.
